In interaction design, PACT (people, activities, contexts, technologies) is a framework and structure that can be used as a method for both analysis and structured ideation. The PACT framework was first introduced to interaction design by David Benyon in his seminal 2005 book, Designing Interactive Systems: People, Activities, Contexts, Technologies1. Benyon has continued to write further on how the PACT framework can be implemented in both design research and practice, with more recent publications centred around contemporary UX and UI design trends and practices.
Much like the SCAMPER method, the PACT framework entails breaking down a design project or problem into a small number of parameters or elements, which enables a designer to reframe their current line of thinking and helps to illuminate often overlooked elements of a project. The PACT framework can be especially useful in scoping out a project in its infancy, as well as uncovering gaps in a more developed project as a way to direct further research. Unlike the SCAMPER method, the PACT framework can be used for both ideation and analysis, making it a very powerful tool for any designer to familiarise themselves with.
We have provided a template that follows the organisation of the PACT framework that can be used to apply the framework in an analysis for your projects.
References
- Benyon, David, Phil Turner, and Susan Turner. 2005. Designing Interactive Systems: People, Activities, Contexts, Technologies. Addison-Wesley.